Throughout the years, Manchester United fans have never been short of heroes to salute.

Nor have the Red Devils ever been short of star players for opposing fans to dislike.

But one player who has emerged as both a fan favourite at Old Trafford and whom is widely respected by opposing supporters is Juan Mata.

Now the Spanish playmaker has opened up for Republic of Mancunia's charity season preview, speaking on a variety of subjects.

And that includes which United star of yesteryear he wishes he could play alongside today, with the Mata eschewing the likes of George Best, Sir Bobby Charlton, Roy Keane and David Beckham, for one of the 90's most iconic figures.

Special Juan (Image: 2018 Getty Images)

"Eric Cantona," revealed Mata.

"There is something really special about him and I would have loved to play with him.

"The King."

Mata, who jumped at the chance to get involved with RoM's fund-raising issue (with all profits going to the Trafford MacMillan Wellbeing Centre), also explained that he is hoping United can bring silverware back to Old Trafford this season, having gone without in 2017-18.

"We always try to improve and we would love to keep winning trophies for our fans," offered the Spaniard.

"Hopefully at the end of the season we can say that it was a very good one!"

The King, in his pomp (Image: Press Association)

Mata is into his fifth year at the club (Image: Man Utd via Getty Images)

Mata, now 30, has been with United since completing a £37million move from Chelsea in 2014, during David Moyes' ill-fated stint at the club.

He has since made 187 appearances during his four-and-a-half years at the club, scoring 39 goals, and when mentioned that he's almost halfway to a testimonial, he insists he is far from done.

"I haven't thought about that," he laughs. "But I feel good and think that there are still some years of football in my legs and head, so maybe!"

However, with just one year left on his deal, Mata is being widely-linked with a potential return to La liga.

Former club Valencia are reportedly keeping tabs on his situation, ahead of a possible free transfer next summer.

The Republic of Mancunia charity season preview is available now. All profits go to the Trafford Macmillan Wellbeing Centre.